Zach Werenski, Cale Makar, and Rasmus Dahlin are the candidates for the coveted Norris Trophy in the NHL this season. The Norris Trophy is awarded each year to the defensive player who demonstrates throughout the season the greatest all-around ability in the position. Werenski, Makar, and Dahlin have each made their own unique cases for the award throughout the duration of the regular season, but it is Werenski who has separated himself from the pack.

The Case For Zach Werenski

Werenski was an offensive juggernaut as a defenseman and led the Columbus Blue Jackets in points with 81 this season. He was the biggest reason Columbus performed so well throughout the season despite not clinching a playoff berth. His ability to move the puck through heavily defended zones to find open teammates is uncanny. His defensive ability to maintain sightlines for his goalies has been noticeable and rewarded with many crisp passes to alter the momentum in games.

Werenski creates opportunities for himself and his teammates that have led to a great deal of success offensively. He definitely has helped develop second chances on rebounds and facilitate the puck to clear space for open shots. He has been the best defenseman in the NHL this year, and it is time he is given his flowers.

The Case For Rasmus Dahlin

Dahlin excelled this season, on both ends of the ice for the Buffalo Sabres. He was masterful with the puck offensively, posting a career high in points with 74. In the defensive zone is where he made his biggest impact in games. His physical presence intimidates opponents, and his ability to lay into other players to render them useless displays his force.

Dahlin’s style of play is not often recognized in modern-day hockey like it would be in an older iteration of the game because of his weaker offensive abilities. Despite not being as talented in the offensive zone as Makar and Werenski, he can make up for it with his powerful defense.

The Case For Cale Makar

Makar is already a two-time Norris Trophy winner and is arguably the best two-way defenseman in the world for the Colorado Avalanche. He has been a Norris Trophy finalist in six consecutive seasons, second all-time to only the legendary Bobby Orr. Makar’s offensive output was less than expected this year, as he amassed 79 points, down from 92 the season prior.

Where Makar’s value sets him apart, is his skating ability. Despite amassing less points, as eluded to, the Av’s assistant captain registered an incredible plus 32, across 75 regular season games. The fact that Makar is on the Stanley Cup favorite Avalanche, might, or might not sway the opinion of voters.

He is not as physically imposing as Dahlin and Werenski are, but he has been a quick skater and can keep up with almost any forward on the ice. He is an amazing defender, ensuring opponents have a challenging time attempting passes and shots in their zone. Voter fatigue is a genuine factor, and Makar may not be on the fortunate end of the votes this season.

Zach Werenski Will Win The NHL’s Norris Trophy

Werenski and the Blue Jackets may not have made the playoffs, but his 2025-26 campaign was one to remember. He will walk away this season with his first Norris Trophy after finishing second last season. It is time for him to be awarded a trophy that he has rightfully earned. Dahlin and Makar both persevered through a lot this year, but Werenski bested them with his offensive and defensive talents.